KARACHI: Bank Alfalah has announced funding of Rs. 8.5 million to protect the endangered Indus River blind dolphins, demonstrating its commitment to preserving Pakistan’s unique wildlife heritage.
After pledging to plant 100,000 trees to combat the impact of climate change, Bank Alfalah has partnered with WWF-Pakistan for another initiative, committing Rs 8.5 million to safeguard the endangered Indus River blind dolphins.
The partnership will engage local communities by establishing five Community-based organizations (CBOs), train 35 fishers, establish 10 nature clubs, and empower 700 students to become conservation champions, ensuring a brighter future for this unique species.
The Indus River dolphin, locally known as “Bhulan,” faces an alarming decline and is listed as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Its population has declined to a mere 20% of its historical range due to a confluence of threats such as habitat loss, entanglement in fishing nets, and pollution.
Commenting on the partnership Madiha Javed Qureshi, Head of Corporate Communication at Bank Alfalah said that Bank Alfalah is proud to collaborate with WWF on this one-of-a-kind initiative, which highlights a unique species of dolphins which only has a habitat in the Indus River. “Through this partnership, we will engage local communities in safeguarding dolphin habitats, raising awareness, and ultimately helping to grow their population, preserving a natural treasure that holds special significance for Pakistan”, she added.
This initiative aligns with Bank Alfalah’s commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 14 (Life Below Water).
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
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